Tony Diaco – Hanover Council Candidate
First of all, tell us a little about your background and overall platform in 100 words or less.
I was born and raised in the city of Toronto. I grew up in the crowded hustle and bustle of Jane/Finch. If you’ve ever wondered how people can live, work and play together, although not always well, that was the place to see it. I spent a good part of my life living with my family in Las Vegas and also received a diploma from a musician’s college in Hollywood, California.
With all of that, Hanover is by far the best place that I’ve ever lived. The community can’t be beat. I feel proud and privileged to be here.
What do you see as the major issue(s) facing business-owners in Grey-Bruce?
Complex problems that I’d really need the input of Hanover business owners, as well as residents, to determine the greatest concerns needing the most immediate attention. It’s truly working with them and for them that the greatest results can be achieved as opposed to personally making that determination blindly.
What strategies do you have in mind to stimulate economic growth in the region?
We need to foster better business relationships with our neighbours and work to build a more mutually beneficial economy for the entire region. Once stable and organized, it will facilitate projects that will entice new business.
Do you feel economic growth should focus on:
A) Bringing in new business developments, or
B) Encouraging small businesses presently in operations?
I believe that it’s actually a little bit of both. That being said, I would first concentrate on the continued success and stabilization of our current businesses which in turn should then make it easier to attract new business. Foundations first.
Do you think local business taxes should be:
A) Increased
B) Decreased
C) Maintained at current levels
I’d like to discuss it directly with Hanover business owners first to make the right decision but I’d suggest maintaining business taxes at the current levels and utilize inexpensive town funded creative marketing strategies to assist their profitability and exposure.
Should there be any changes in the services offered to local businesses?
Again, an open discussion forum would be prudent to determine which, if any, changes or new services are wanted.
It would then be my job to help find ways to implement and/or maintain them.
